When it comes to building a healthier future for Scarborough, Joshua Harris believes action speaks louder than words.
As CEO of Harris & Partners Inc. and a dedicated member of the SHN Foundation Board, Joshua is leading his own fundraising campaign for the new Birchmount Patient Tower and personally matching every donation up to $25,000 to help double the impact for local patients and families.
That means reaching up to $50,000 faster and fueling real change for Scarborough’s hospitals.
What inspired you to join the Scarborough Health Network Foundation board?
As a Licensed Insolvency Trustee, we operate under the motto “help for honest but unfortunate people.” Scarborough has been underserved in medical care for decades — not because its residents don’t deserve quality healthcare, but because of a lack of awareness and attention. It’s time we truly live up to the promise of universal healthcare and ensure that every Canadian, regardless of where they live, receives equal access to care.
Why did you decide to lead your own personal fundraising campaign for the Birchmount Patient Tower?
I believe it’s critical to continue expanding access to healthcare across the province, especially in underserved and densely populated areas like Scarborough. We can’t stop at one project; we must keep building and improving as population density grows to maintain the highest standards of care. This effort benefits all Canadians — healthier communities ultimately reduce the burden on taxpayers.
How does the $25,000 match challenge work, and why did you choose to make this personal commitment?
Philanthropy has been a core value in my family for generations. Even when we were new immigrants with very little, we always gave what we could — whether time or money — to support others. I now feel fortunate to be in a position to give back to the communities that have helped me grow. For every dollar raised up to $25,000, I’ve pledged to personally match that amount on behalf of my children.
What impact do you hope this fundraising campaign will have on the Scarborough community and patients?
Awareness is key. We need to shine a light on the inequities and underfunding that persist in the system. By raising awareness, we can drive change and create a more level playing field. The more people who understand the reality of healthcare gaps in Scarborough, the more support we can build for meaningful action.
How are you engaging your network and the community to help reach your fundraising goals?
So far, my friends, family, colleagues, and clients have been incredibly generous and eager to learn more. Many have been shocked to discover how underfunded Scarborough’s healthcare system has been — and that awareness alone is making a difference. This is just the beginning; I plan to continue sharing this message and engaging as many people as I can.
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